Vancouver, a bustling city on Canada’s west coast, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, diverse culture, and dynamic culinary scene. Having lived in the city for several years, I fell in love not only with the beautiful scenery, but the incredible food scene. For this reason, I think it’s so important to experience the essence of Vancouver by indulging in its food, just as the locals would. In this article, I share my pick of Vancouver’s rich culinary scene so that you too can uncover hidden gems and iconic foods that shape the city’s unique flavours.
Why eat like a local?
Eating like a local goes beyond just tasting food; it’s about connecting with the culture, traditions, and history of the place. For me, it’s the best way to experience a city - you really get to learn all about a place through its flavours and cooking methods. Locals know where to find the freshest seafood, the most authentic international cuisine, and the best coffee spots that fuel the city’s energy. By joining a local food tour, you'll gain insider access to Vancouver’s culinary hotspots, discovering why food is such a central part of life here.
Top foodie destinations in Vancouver
Here are some of the places you simply can’t miss when it comes to sampling the best of Vancouver’s food and drink.
Granville Island Public Market
Granville Island is a haven for food lovers, and one of the first places I ever visited for great local food. This bustling market is a microcosm of Vancouver’s diverse food scene. From artisanal cheeses and freshly baked bread to exotic spices and locally sourced produce, you can sample a variety of delicious treats.
Many of the vendors have been perfecting their craft for decades, ensuring you taste the best of what the market has to offer. It’s so popular with locals - I used to visit every Sunday to pick up ingredients to cook that evening, and it’s a tradition I miss so much.
Authentic Asian Cuisine in Richmond
Just a short drive from downtown Vancouver, Richmond boasts arguably North America's best Asian dining. Home to a large immigrant population, this area offers an authentic taste of China, Japan, Korea, and beyond. Here, you can wander through the vibrant streets of Richmond and savour mouth-watering dim sum, aromatic pho, and delectable sushi.
Having spent some time in Tokyo, I can honestly say Richmond is home to some of the best Japanese food out of Japan. I really recommend visiting to experience the rich flavours and textures that make this area a culinary treasure.
Seafood by the Seawall
No visit to Vancouver would be complete without enjoying its world-famous seafood. It’s some of the freshest and most delicious I’ve tried anywhere in the world. There are some wonderful local spots by the scenic seawall, where you can indulge in freshly caught Pacific salmon, Dungeness crab, and succulent oysters. Enjoy the stunning waterfront views as you learn about the sustainable fishing practices that help keep Vancouver’s seafood both delicious and environmentally friendly.
Gastown’s Historic Flavours
Step back in time with a visit to Gastown, Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood. In fact, any visitors I had come to stay with me in Vancouver absolutely loved Gastown thanks to its unique history and great bars and restaurants. Here, cobblestone streets and historic buildings set the stage for a foodie adventure.
There are plenty of establishments that have stood the test of time here, offering classic Canadian dishes with a modern twist. From poutine loaded with gourmet toppings to juicy bison burgers, Gastown is a hearty tribute to Canada's rich culinary heritage.
Sweet Treats and Coffee Culture
Vancouverites love their coffee almost as much as their stunning mountain views! When visiting Vancouver, you have to visit some of the city’s best coffee shops, where you can enjoy expertly crafted brews paired with irresistible pastries.
Whether you’re a fan of a rich, dark roast or a smooth, creamy latte, Vancouver’s coffee culture has something for every palate. Top it off with a visit to a local chocolatier, where you’ll sample handcrafted chocolates that are as beautiful as they are delicious.
5 Must-Try Dishes in Vancouver
Here are 5 of the best dishes I recommend trying in Vancouver:
- JapaDog: a fusion of Japanese flavours and the classic hot dog, JapaDog has become a Vancouver staple. Don’t miss their signature Terimayo dog, topped with teriyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and seaweed.
- Tacos: some of the city’s best tacos originate from a food truck in Tofino on nearby Vancouver island. Vancouver does a really good fish taco - be sure to try some with their perfectly crispy fish, fresh slaw, and zesty sauce.
- Poutine: if you’ve never tried a poutine before, you simply must! Poutine is a quintessential Canadian comfort food consisting of crispy french fries topped with squeaky cheese curds and rich gravy.
- Fresh oysters: Vancouver’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean means that the seafood here is as fresh as it gets, and oysters are no exception. The city boasts numerous spots where you can enjoy these delicacies, often served on the half shell with a selection of tasty accompaniments.
- Ice cream: thanks to the city’s hot summers, it boasts several excellent ice cream and gelato shops. This small-batch, artisanal ice cream comes in a variety of inventive flavours. Salted caramel is a local favourite that you won’t want to miss.
Why choose a Vancouver food tour?
A food tour is more than just a tasting experience; it’s an immersive journey into the heart of Vancouver’s culinary landscape. Although you might know what to try when visiting the city, you might not know the best places to eat. Here’s why it’s a good idea:
- Expert guides: our knowledgeable guides are passionate about Vancouver’s food scene and eager to share its hidden gems with you.
- Diverse tastes: from bustling markets to serene seaside dining, our tour covers a wide array of culinary delights.
- Local insights: learn the stories behind the food, meet the people who make it, and discover what makes Vancouver’s food scene so special.
- Personalised experience: we keep our group sizes small to ensure a personalised and intimate experience for every guest.
Eating like a local in Vancouver is a feast for the senses. Our food tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s diverse and dynamic food scene, all while enjoying the company of fellow food enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to try something new, our tour promises an unforgettable culinary adventure. Book your spot today and get ready to taste the best of Vancouver, one bite at a time.
Hey curious traveler, visiting Vancouver soon? Hey curious traveler, visiting Vancouver soon? At City Unscripted, we create personalized city experiences led by passionate locals who share Vancouver’s stories in a way no guidebook can. Whether you’re seeking hidden gems or exploring iconic landmarks, your experience is flexible and designed just for you — without the rigid structure of a tour. Discover the culture, history, and character of Vancouver with a host who adapts the journey to your interests, making every moment feel unique and unscripted.
Top private experiences in Vancouver
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